Bruceville-Eddy — After public hearings that drew neighbors and nearby business owners, the council on Sept. 26 approved two zoning map amendments: one to legalize an existing home-based beauty shop and another to allow construction of duplexes on two lots on 4th Street.

The first ordinance (O9-26-2024-1) rezoned 111 Temple Street (0.38 acres) from single-family dwelling district 1 to local retail. Staff told voters the change would permit low-intensity retail uses such as a beauty shop or barbershop while excluding heavier commercial uses. Multiple neighbors said the business has operated for years without causing traffic problems; after the hearing, council approved the ordinance by voice vote.

The second rezoning (Z09-26-2024-2) changes two parcels on 4th Street from single-family dwelling district 3 to multifamily dwelling district 1. The applicant, a local developer, described plans for owner-held duplexes intended to be affordable and permanent slab-built homes. Staff noted the properties lie inside the sewer connection zone and will require plan review, sewer hookups and sufficient lot frontage for multifamily classification. Neighbors asked about deed restrictions, HOA status, parking counts and long-term oversight; staff said deed restrictions are enforced privately by HOAs, while the city would address parking and building code during plan review. After discussion council approved the rezoning; council confirmed the ordinance allows one duplex (two doors) per lot and that parking requirements will be set by plan review.

Votes at a glance:
- Ordinance O9-26-2024-1 (111 Temple Street) — Approved by voice vote (council recorded '4' in favor).
- Ordinance Z09-26-2024-2 (709 & 711 4th Street) — Approved by voice vote.

Next steps: Applicants must complete any required permitting and plan-review steps; the developer must follow the city’s plan-review process and obtain sewer connections before construction begins.